Skin Cancer Care in Lubbock and Denver City, TX

Skin Cancer Specialists Dermatology Associates of West Texas provides the highest standard of dermatological care for our Lubbock, TX, patients. Our team ranks among the most experienced skin cancer experts in West Texas, and we specialize in using state-of-the-art technology in the medical and surgical treatment of skin cancer.

Doctor examines a mole during a skin cancer screening

You deserve to understand your condition, prognosis, and treatment. Whether you're concerned about a new skin growth or you're dealing with advanced-stage skin cancer, we provide compassionate care geared toward your recovery.

Types of Skin Cancer

The three main types of skin cancer are:

  • Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC): Of the 5.5 million people who develop non-melanoma skin cancers, about 80% have BCC. It often looks like a pearly or waxy bump and usually appears on areas exposed to the sun, like the face or neck. Although it rarely spreads, early treatment is essential.
  • Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC): SCC often manifests as scaly, red patches or open sores that may crust or bleed. It's more likely than BCC to spread to other parts of the body if untreated.
  • Melanoma: The most dangerous variety of skin cancer, melanoma affects around 100,000 Americans yearly. It may appear as a new dark or irregularly shaped growth. It can appear within a mole. Because melanoma can spread rapidly, early detection is critical.

Causes and Risk Factors

Knowing skin cancer causes and risk factors can help you protect yourself.

  • UV Exposure: Ultraviolet (UV) radiation, whether from the sun or tanning beds, is the most common cause of skin cancer. UV rays damage the DNA inside skin cells, increasing the risk of cancer.
  • Genetic Predisposition: If you have close family members with skin cancer, your risk increases. 
  • Fair Skin: Individuals with fair skin, light eyes, or a tendency to burn rather than tan are also more susceptible.

Prevention Strategies

Some smart tactics to protect your skin from UV rays are:

  • Wear Sunscreen: Broad-spectrum sunscreen minimum SPF of 30. Reapply every two hours or as needed after swimming or perspiring.
  • Seek Shade: During the hottest part of the day (generally 10 am - 4 pm), seek out shaded areas.
  • Protective Gear: Wear wide-brimmed hats and sunglasses.

We also recommend monthly skin checks at home and annual skin cancer screenings in our office.

Diagnosis of Skin Cancer

Skin cancer diagnosis begins with a thorough skin exam. We may take some skin cells for testing (a biopsy.) This can determine if cancer is present and, if so, its type and severity.

Surgical and Non-Surgical Treatments

Treatment depends on the growth's type, size, and location. Common approaches include:

Surgery

Excisional surgery removes the cancerous growth and a margin of healthy surrounding tissue.

Mohs surgery removes one thin layer of cells at a time. Only specially trained dermatological surgeons can perform Mohs surgery. The goal is to fully remove cancer while saving the maximum amount of healthy tissue. This approach may be ideal for delicate areas like the face. Mohs surgery treats BCC and SCC and, in some cases, melanoma in situ (melanoma that hasn't spread.)

Non-Surgical Options

Common non-surgical approaches include:

  • Topical Medications: For superficial cancers, creams or gels can target abnormal cells.
  • Cryotherapy: Freezing cancerous cells with liquid nitrogen.
  • Radiation Therapy: Used for cancers that can't be surgically removed or aggressive cancers. Sometimes used after surgery. 
  • Immunotherapy: Prompts the immune system to fight cancer cells.

Why Choose Us for Skin Cancer Care?

At Dermatology Associates of West Texas, our team includes board-certified and fellowship-trained dermatologists with decades of expertise in skin cancer screening, diagnosis, and prevention. Our specialists are among a select handful in the region specializing in Mohs micrographic surgery.

We provide comprehensive dermatological care, including advanced skin cancer treatments, under one roof in Lubbock, making it convenient to get reliable, trustworthy care from the specialists who understand skin cancer best.

FAQs

What are the common signs of skin cancer?

Look for nonhealing sores, new skin growths, or moles that change in size, shape, or color. 

How do you reduce the risk of skin cancer?

Wear SPF 30-plus sunscreen and hats outside. Avoid peak sun hours. Regular skin exams are also crucial.

What does a skin cancer screening involve?

A dermatologist every inch of your skin, looking for unusual spots or changes.

What are the treatments for skin cancer?

Common options include surgery, topical medications, cryotherapy, radiation, or immunotherapy, depending on the case.

Is skin cancer curable if detected early?

Yes. With early detection, there's a high chance of successful treatment and a low chance of recurrence.

How often do I need skin cancer screenings?

Most people need annual screenings. We may recommend more frequent checks if you have a history of cancer or an elevated risk level.

Can skin cancer recur after treatment?

Recurrence is uncommon but possible, especially without ongoing preventive measures. 

Does having a family history of skin cancer increase my risk?

Yes, so regular screenings and preventive measures are crucial if you have family members with skin cancer.

Concerned About Skin Cancer in Lubbock or Denver City, TX?

If you're concerned about a skin growth, wondering about your risk level, or need a skin screening, you can rely upon our experts at Dermatology Associates of West Texas. Call our office at 806-797-1202 to book your appointment.

3 Convenient Locations In Your Area

Fax: 806-797-4854

dermatology associates west texas lubbock ithaca ave 1.2x

Ithaca Ave - Lubbock Office

Monday – Friday: 8am – 4pm

indiana ave office 1.2x

Indiana Ave - Lubbock

Monday – Friday: 8am – 4pm

dermatology associates west texas denver city 1.2x

Monday, Tuesday, & Thursday: 8am – 3pm

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